At Risk

How far will you go when your last chance at freedom is taken away?

Tia, a nineteen-year-old black Canadian university student, is spending the summer working at a special ranch designed to “scare straight” at-risk youth. She tries to bond with Sage, a street kid who has been given one last chance to get her life together. But Sage resists Tia’s overtures and when money goes missing, all fingers point to the troubled teen. At Risk combines a satisfying mystery plot with a sympathetic portrayal of teens grappling with dark pasts and uncertain futures.

At Risk was featured in Best in the West magazine!

At Risk is Jacqueline’s eleventh book, published in 2004.

ISBN 1-55028-846-6

Awards:

Canadian Children’s Book Center – Our Choice Award

Reviews:

“At Risk is an insightful glimpse into the dark world of street teens. The emphasis on positive rehabilitation makes it a worthwhile read for both teens and parents. A well written page-turner, highly recommended.”,Constable G.P. Tourond, RCMP, Retired

“This thoughtful and enjoyable story has the pleasant surprise of reversed racial stereotypes. Tia, the counselor, is black whereas Sage, her client, is white. The Canadian Rockies provide a refreshing change from the harsher terrain of inner cities. The novel would be a good choice for discussion.”James Lorimer

We had no idea that we were surrounded by so many young story-tellers! Jacqueline brought out the power of story in each and every one of our students, inspiring them to learn more about Canadian history, put themselves in others’ shoes, write beautifully descriptive journal entries, and share their work orally with their peers – all in 80 minutes! Our students and teachers loved the workshop, laughing and learning alongside Jacqueline. We can’t wait for her to come back!

What an absolute pleasure to have Jacqueline in our class today! My grade 6 students where all very engaged during her presentation. They responded and enjoyed the flash writing activity. Her personal passion for writing was evident and she was easily able to make my students embrace her energy! I highly recommend she visit your classroom.

I was the one who cracked your Morse code, and won your book when you visited our school! I read the whole thing when I got home from school, and I loved it! I just wanted to asked about the ending of the story and when I read it I burst out in happy and sad tears! I was wondering if there is another book that continues the journey of Ailish, and her friend Paddy. I also would like to know if Davey comes back to visit her again. I will always read that book and never forget that ending!

Grade Five StudentOlivia

I would like to express my gratitude for your visit on Tuesday and contributing to our Literacy Week. Your presentations were amazing. You had our students engaged and interested. It was wonderful to see their interest and enjoyment. Your books are being asked about and talked about among our students. I have received so many positive comments from students and staff. Thanks for making my first Author Visit a memorable one.

Mrs. Rosa BicanicLearning Commons Librarian
St. Wilfrid Elementary

Excellent! I love Jacqueline’s Metis History and Culture Presentation. She makes it so much fun for the kids. Jacqueline is very personable and engaging, the kids love her!